Cyprus and the other eight Mediterranean EU member states participating in the MED9 Summit on the island, want to send strong messages, via a joint statement, on the need to have a holistic approach as regards water scarcity, Agriculture, Rural Development and Environmental Minister Maria Panayiotou said on Monday.
She spoke to the press following a visit, with her counterparts, to an agricultural farm and hydroponic production unit in Ormidia and the wastewater treatment facility in Ayia Napa, in the Famagusta district.
Panayiotou said that the Summit is taking place in the Famagusta district which is mainly an agricultural region, adding that it is important that EU Commissioner of Agriculture is taking part.
She went on to say that water scarcity and drought is an extremely urgent issue that effects the primary sector of the economy.
The Minister said that a strong message by the EU MED countries on water issues will take into account the resilience and sustainability of the people of the Mediterranea
n region.
She also said that the Summit will also discuss issues to simplify procedures and lessen the bureaucratic burden.
Later today the Minister will meet with the EU Commissioner followed by a meeting with agricultural organisations.
Source: Cyprus News Agency